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The Michigan Gaming Control Board has halted the activities of four online gambling platforms operating illegally in the state. The sites — Orbit Spins, Betty Wins, Pacific Spins and Yabby Casino — received cease-and-desist orders Tuesday, Sept. 2.
Owned and operated by Tech Zone Inc., the four online casinos are accused of offering gambling services to Michigan residents without state approval. By issuing the stop orders, regulators reinforced their stance against illegal gambling.
So far, the agency has ordered more than 130 unlicensed casinos to shut down. Currently, only 15 licensed online casinos in Michigan operate legally.
Why offshore online casinos put Michigan players at risk
“These offshore operators lure players with flashy ads and promises of big winnings, but in reality, they put consumers at serious financial and personal risk,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said. He added that the board will continue taking decisive action against unlicensed sites to ensure gambling in Michigan is legal, fair and secure.
Unregulated websites lack consumer protections and government oversight. They also may lack the responsible gaming tools required by Michigan law. In an MGCB news release, Williams warned that using these platforms exposes consumers to “serious financial and personal risk.”
The risks include fraud, identity theft and significant financial losses. If an operator fails to pay out winnings or mishandles customer data, the state cannot intervene. That makes offshore online casinos a clear danger to Michigan residents.
The state laws behind Michigan’s legal online casinos
Igaming in Michigan is governed by the Lawful Internet Gaming Act of 2019 and the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act. The MGCB issues licenses to operators and enforces compliance across the sector.
Any provider without a license violates state law. Illegal operators face strict enforcement actions, including fines and potential criminal penalties. These measures aim to protect consumers and maintain the integrity of Michigan’s online gaming industry.
Dozens of offshore online casinos ordered to shut down
In July, the MGCB carried out its largest enforcement push to date, issuing cease-and-desist letters to 19 unlicensed online gambling sites targeting Michigan players. Earlier that month, it ordered five other platforms to stop offering services to residents.
Together, those two sweeps shut down nearly 25 illegal operators. The latest action against four offshore casinos reflects the same aggressive approach and sends a clear message that unlicensed operators will not be tolerated in Michigan.
How Michigan protects players from illegal online casinos
The MGCB also works to protect residents through its “Play It Smart, Michigan” campaign, which raises awareness about the dangers of illegal gambling. The campaign helps users distinguish between legitimate and illicit sites.
The MGCB website features a page titled “Legal vs. Illegal Gaming,” which outlines the differences and lists licensed Michigan online casinos and sports betting providers.
Williams emphasized that deceptive advertising often uses legitimate-looking branding to trick players. Transparency and verification, he said, are essential. His message: If the MGCB has not licensed a site, it should not be trusted.
Legal consequences for Tech Zone Inc. if they don’t comply
If the four offshore operators fail to comply, the MGCB warned it will pursue stricter legal action, including court orders and civil penalties. The agency may also work with the Michigan Department of Attorney General.
Possible measures include injunctions to block operators from doing business with residents and efforts to recover unlawful profits. The threat of escalating consequences underscores the regulator’s authority.
Reporting illegal online casinos: What MI consumers should know
Williams urged Michigan residents to check the MGCB website before placing bets to confirm a platform is licensed. He also encouraged players to report suspicious or illegal gambling sites.
Reports can be submitted through the tip line at 888-314-2682 or by email at MIGamblingTip@michigan.gov. Williams stressed: If a site is not licensed, it is not safe.
By taking a hard line against offshore operators, the MGCB is sending a clear message that illegal gambling will not be tolerated. The agency remains committed to protecting Michigan residents and plans to continue both public awareness campaigns and vigorous enforcement to support a safer online casino market.
